Sultan-Led Group Warns of Impending Revolt as Nationwide Hunger Grips Northern Region

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, leading the Northern Traditional Council, has issued a grave warning that escalating poverty, hunger, and insecurity may lead to a widespread revolt against President Bola Tinubu’s administration in the near future.

Speaking at the 6th executive Northern Traditional Council committee meeting in Arewa House, Kaduna, Mr. Sa’ad, who also serves as both a traditional and religious leader, emphasized the increasing agitation among the people, stating, “We have reached that level; people are very agitated, people are hungry, they are angry.”

He expressed concern that traditional leaders might no longer be able to pacify the citizens against the government and political leaders responsible for addressing socio-economic challenges.

Mr. Sa’ad highlighted the gravity of the situation, lamenting the rising poverty levels and insecurity, stating, “To make matters worse, we are faced with the rising level of poverty of most of our people; lack of normal sources of livelihood by the common man to even have a good meal a day.”

The Sultan’s warning aligns with recent protests sparked by a surge in food prices, triggering public outrage. Market survey revealed that inflation, since Mr. Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, has significantly impacted the prices of essential food items.

In response to public outcry, President Tinubu directed the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to release approximately 42,000 metric tonnes of grain, including maize, millet, and garri. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) acknowledged these measures as an attempt to alleviate the impact of rapidly rising inflation on living conditions.